9 Ways to Nail Holiday Marketing Once and For All

With summer winding down, seeing holiday decorations in your favorite stores might make you feel like time is moving too fast. However, it’s not too early to start solidifying holiday marketing campaigns. Preparation is key for the busiest time of the year, so make that list and check it twice to maximize the impact of your efforts. Here are nine ways to do holiday marketing right, giftwrapped just for you.

First, Audit Last Year’s Holiday Marketing Campaigns

The key to successful holiday marketing is understanding the way your target audience has behaved in the past. By examining last year’s campaign performance and purchasing trends, you can better predict what may happen this year. Reviewing all your metrics can help you see what went well and what might need improvements this time around. Your goals for the season will become all the more clear.

This is also a great opportunity to look at how your consumer base has changed over the years. If you went through a large growth spurt or a demographic shift, you may need to update your segments in preparation for the holiday rush.

Start Early

When it comes to holiday campaigns, it’s never too early to get started. The holidays tend to be a stressful time for many, so by starting now, you can avoid a lot of the scrambling that can come with putting together campaigns at the last minute.

Plus, you don’t have to wait around for a December launch. Getting your first-wave campaigns out the door in November or even October can help you capture early shoppers looking to beat the rush. In fact, 80% of Americans have their holiday shopping completed once November rolls around.

Add a Little Cheer to Your Copy

While it takes time to write fresh, compelling copy for the season, it’s a worthwhile investment Unique messaging can set you apart from the crowd, especially when it’s specifically tailored for the season. This language tells consumers that your offerings are current, and that whichever products and deals you’re advertising might be just what they’re looking for.

Create a Reason to Buy

Consumers are bombarded with campaign after campaign near the end of the year. In a sea of holiday marketing, create a sense of urgency to bring customers to your virtual doorstep. Elements such as countdown timers and banners that promote your time-sensitive offers can help push hesitant prospects to convert.

At the same time, you don’t want to push your offers so much so that it devalues your brand. Connection and retention should be top of mind; you want those holiday purchasers to come back as time goes on. An easy way to do this is to help consumers spread the holiday cheer. By partnering with a nonprofit whose values align with yours, you’re creating a sense of purpose for your campaign.

Host a Holiday Giveaway

Speaking of giving back, social media giveaways are a great, cost-effective way to join in on the holiday fun. You’ll help get your current fanbase excited for your seasonal offerings, while gaining followers and building hype around your products. Plus, those new followers may turn into potential needs to nurture in the new year.

Offer Mystery Deals, Free Gifts, and More

Tis the season for special offers, free gifts, and fun deals that get your customers talking, clicking, and converting. Enter mystery sales. These promotions add to the intrigue because customers won’t know what deal they’re getting until they enter their information at checkout. It’s almost like they’re opening their very own gift from your brand.

Now, if you want to take the idea of holiday gifting one step further, offer a free item with purchase. Many consumers prioritize shopping for others rather than treating themselves during this time. A free gift gives them the chance to snag something for themselves and ensure they’re in the mood to buy.

Other offers such as buy more, save more also tend to gain traction. With discounts increasing as they spend more, you might just see your average order total increase, as well.

Bundle Up

Consumers often shop specifically for gift sets this time of year. Whether it’s a bundle of your bestsellers or a grouping of samples your audience loves, holiday bundles deliver greater value than standalone items. They increase average order value, while helping you push sales and move units. Plus, sharing your bundles on social media can help keep the holiday spirit going.

Embrace Remarketing

Remarketing is one of the most effective tools you can have in your holiday marketing arsenal. This process of serving targeted ads to consumers who have visited or completed an action on your website is a great use of resources. Shoppers tend to look around for the best deals during this time of year, and remarketing allows you to capture those who didn’t buy from your site the first time around.

Extend Your Campaigns

Sometimes, consumers want to take advantage of your offers, but may not be able to do so right away. Think of engaging them as a second chance to enjoy the holiday spirit. You’ll also have the opportunity to build brand loyalty, strengthen your relationships with your existing customers, and acquire new customers going into the new year.

Final Thoughts

Now’s the time to get your holiday marketing ironed out. From mystery deals and free gifts to remarketing efforts that will keep them coming back, you’ll be sure to foster an emotional bond with your target audience. Get ready to head into 2023 with an engaged consumer base. Let’s make the holidays delightful together!